Driving from Miami to Key West allows me to clear my mind especially when I have lots of meetings in Key West.
Is the drive from Miami to Key West worth it?
Yes, the 159 miles drive from Miami to Key West is an adventurous and exciting trip.
The trip allows me to travel across the Overseas Highway and see some of the most beautiful places in Florida.
Although I can get to Key West in a few hours, it is better to take a few days for this trip as there are so many exciting places I cannot afford to miss.
For vacationers like me who like to explore their environment, I discover hidden treasures and learn about the culture and history of Key West.
The road trip to Key West is the perfect way to unwind.
Places to stop on a drive from Miami to Key West
· Key Largo
The first place on the list is the quaint island of Key Largo. You’ll find this island about 90 minutes into your drive from Miami to Key West and it is located in the upper Florida Keys archipelago.
Key Largo is famously known to be the Diving Capital of the World. If you are interested in water sports, you’ll definitely love every second of your time here.
There is an endless list of activities you can do here. Some of them include:
- diving
- snorkeling
- fishing,
- paddle boarding
● Islamorada
Set of the popular Netflix series ‘Bloodline,’ Two hours into the drive, you’ll find this breathtaking beachfront destination which was the set of a popular Netflix series titled, “Bloodline”.
In Islamorada, there are several bars and restaurants around. Most water activities are endless.
Islamorada is known to fishing enthusiasts as the Sports Fishing Capital of the World.
If you’re interested in diving, make sure you visit the History of Diving Museum during your stay as it has an amazing collection of items that are related to man’s exploration and discovery of the sea.
● Marathon
One hour before you get to Key West, the Marathon awaits. Here, you’ll be greeted with a warm tropical climate and an endless list of things to do.
One of the famous buildings in Marathon is “The Turtle Hospital”. This organization is committed to saving and rehabilitating endangered sea turtles.
You can visit the hospital for a guided tour to meet some of the permanent residents and current patients.
Other places include:
- the Crane Point Nature Area which boasts of great hiking trails
- Sombrero beach which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida characterized by sugar white sand and sparkling clear waters.
● Big Pine Key
Before you get to Key West, one last stop you don’t want to miss is Big Pine West. This is one of the best and clearest reefs for water activities, including diving and snorkeling.
It also has very famous trails and wilderness for you to explore.
One coolest Big Pine Key destinations is the Bahia Honda State Park. This park houses a mile long Sandspur beach and it is the perfect spot for:
- Sunbathing
- Snorkeling
- Wildlife watching and so much more
Another popular place in Big Pine Key is the National Key Deer Nature Center which is committed to protecting and caring for sick or injured Key Deer as well as other endangered species.
People enthusiastic about exploring nature trails will love this place as it features an exceptional bike path.
Is driving from Miami to Key West Easy?
Yes, it is. In theory, the drive from Miami to Key West takes roughly four hours without stopping. However, it is recommended that you take your time to enjoy and experience all the places around to make your trip even more worthwhile and enjoyable.
As such, trying to complete the whole drive in a day may ruin your experience because you’ll have to rush everything.
Finally, Key West! With so much adventure and beautiful places along the drive to Key West, you’ll realize that the trip was worth every second and every stop. Ideally, three nights in Key West should be enough.
You can sail out to sea on a relaxing catamaran sunset cruise and take in the captivating view of one of the best sunsets you’ll ever see.
Mallory Square is filled with so many restaurants, bars and lounges. You can grab a drink with your friends or by yourself while reading a book.
Some other cool places you can visit in Key West are:
- Duval street
- Smallest Bar in Key West
- Smathers beach: This is the largest beach on the island with nearly a mile of soft snow while sand and crystal blue waters.
- You can rent a chair here, read a magazine, or engage in a volleyball game. Alternatively, you can spend your day on the sea participating in activities such as:
- Jet skiing
- Windsurfing
- Kayaking and
- Parasailing
People who enjoy sightseeing can get onboard in the Conch Tour Train and take a trip around Key West in about 90 minutes. You’ll get to see most of the best places in Key West including:
- the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum,
- the Key West Lighthouse,
- the Southernmost Point and
- the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to see between Miami and Key West?
Between Key West and Miami, some of the thrilling places to see include:
- Robbie’s of Islamorada
- Seven Mile Bridge
- Dolphin Research Center
- Turtle Hospital
- Robert is Here Fruit Stand
- John Pennekamp Park
- Rain Barrel Artisan Village
- Green Turtle Inn
Is Key West worth a day trip from Miami?
Although there are some less exciting areas, you’ll see several islands in Florida Keys, and you can take a quick stop and grab something to eat.
Along the way, you can also visit some of the beaches and museums and even shop for items while you’re at it.
Can Key West be a day trip from Miami?
You can take a day trip from Miami to Key West, the southernmost city in the United States.
Through the drive, you’ll pass about 42 bridges, including Seven Mile Bridge and 34 islands while traveling through the Overseas Highway